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'Nothing's better than Friday nights'—Goodrich coach hits 100 wins

Goodrich head coach Tom Alward and his Martians. Photo by Bob Flath. (click for larger version)

September 15, 2010 - After 18 seasons, Goodrich Varsity Football Head Coach Tom Alward started the 2010 season out right—with his 100th win.

Alward, 57, started as an assistant JV football coach at Flint Central High School in 1977 and went on to assistant varsity football coach at Bendel High School before coming to Goodrich in 1993.

"It's been an awesome ride," said Alward, who now coaches with his son Trevor, a GHS graduate and former football player. "Nothing's better than Friday nights in the fall."

"The first game I coached in the fall of 1993 was against Bentley High School—we lost," said Alward. "But the reason I lasted so many years have been the outstanding young men that make up Martian football. That's why I stay."

Over the years a lot has changed—equipment has improved, players get faster and more athletic.

"Many of the kids play only one sport now, they specialize. It used to be you played all sports, track, basketball or baseball. It was my belief to grab up all you can. They just don't do that anymore."

"There's been some great teams here at Goodrich and some special wins—they all played against the competition different. I can't say one particular team—the 2010 Maritan team is one of the best I've seen."

Alward opened the 2010 season with a 2-1 record.

The 48-0 win over Warren Lincoln on Aug. 26 was followed by a loss to Beecher 12-7 on Sept. 2. The Martians won their second game of the season with a 35-27 victory over Montrose on Sept 10.

After falling in the first round of the state playoffs a year ago and ending the 2009 season with a record of 4-2, (6-4 overall) Alward hopes to take his team back to postseason play.

"The new look will begin at quarterback, with Junior Nick Glowacki and sophomore Sam Bolongaita, who will likely share the time at the position. They should have great protection with senior offensive linemen and Kyle Tison and team captain Keegan Pierce. Other seniors are tailback captain Wade Wood, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards; senior fullback Nick Sweet; junior guard Danny Broughton; and senior guard captain Ray Heddy.